If you are new to Raiser’s Edge, don’t worry. This article provides a beginner’s guide on how to learn how to use this software. With the right approach and commitment, anyone can learn to use Raiser’s Edge effectively and efficiently.
Step 1
Get to Know the Interface
The first step to learning Raiser’s Edge is to familiarize yourself with the software’s interface. Raiser’s Edge has a clean and well-organized user interface, which comprises a wide range of modules with different functions that interrelate with each other. Therefore, getting to know each of them is the first and most crucial step to learning the software.
Take the time to organize the software homepage and customize your dashboards. Each user has the ability to personalize their own experience, and the most efficient users strive to create a homepage with the most commonly used and/or important information just one click away. To achieve this, consider setting up custom dashboards to see important views or for an overview of actions or next steps with donors.
Step 2
Understand the Terminologies
Like any other software program, Raiser’s Edge has its lingo and terminologies. Understanding Raiser’s Edge’s terminologies is critical as they will pop up frequently during tasks and requirements. By learning these terms, you can have a comprehensive understanding of what happens under different operations and processes in the software. Some of the fundamental terminologies you should learn are discussed below:
Constituent: Constituents refer to individuals, foundations, and organizations your nonprofit interacts with. For example, donors, volunteers, and board members.
Gift: When a constituent donates a cash gift, makes a pledge, or sends a gift-in-kind to your nonprofit, it is considered a gift. Raiser’s Edge helps you track and manage these gifts.
Campaign: A campaign is defined as your overall objective to raise money. A campaign acts as an umbrella over funds and appeals, and can have any number of funds and appeals under it.
Query: Raiser’s Edge offers a powerful data analysis tool called ‘Query.’ The query feature allows you to create specific groupings of constituent data based on certain criteria.
Step 3
Practice, Practice, Practice
The adage ‘practice makes perfect’ also applies to learning Raiser’s Edge. The software is complex, and unless you familiarize yourself with its features, it can be challenging to understand how to leverage it for your organization’s success. The best approach is to practice as much as possible.
A practical tip is to be a consistent user. Devote a set amount of time daily to using Raiser’s Edge. The more time spent working with using Raiser’s Edge, the more efficient a user you will become.
Step 4
Take Advantage of Online Resources
The internet offers an abundant repository of information on Raiser’s Edge, from documentation to video tutorials. Take advantage of these resources to enhance your learning experience. Some of the most useful online resources for Raiser’s Edge include:
- Blackbaud’s Knowledgebase: This is a vast repository of support information from Blackbaud, the software’s developer.
- User Community: Joining Raiser’s Edge online communities offers an excellent opportunity to network with other users, exchange ideas, and learn from experienced users’ tips and tricks.
- YouTube Tutorials: YouTube has a wide range of video tutorials that can complement your training. Search for tutorials from seasoned Raiser’s Edge users to gain insights and practical tips.
Take caution! It’s important to understand that while the internet offers many useful resources to learn Raiser’s Edge, there are also many (if not more) options that are either inaccurate, out-of-date, confusing, or a combination of all three. If you are uncomfortable with trying to sort the good from the bad, read on to learn more about professional Raiser’s Edge training.
Step 5
Seek Professional Training
If you want to jumpstart your learning experience and ensure you are receiving accurate and up-to-date knowledge, you can also consider professional Raiser’s Edge training.
At Marsherall Partners, we offer professional training for nonprofit organizations and individuals.
If you want to better understand how your organization is using Raiser’s Edge™ and how to use it more effectively, connect with us today. We are available for both remote and on-site consultations.
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